Wanted: an agenda for small business - includes an article on industries providing opportunity for small businesses - B.E. Special Report on Small Business - Cover Story

Black Enterprise, Nov, 1992 by Kevin D. Thompson, Eileen Davis

The ADA, however, won't be a boon for all. Since many black-owned firms are undercapitalized, it will be tough for them to comply with the law -- especially when it comes to building ramps, workstations and bathrooms. "This law will certainly hit the smaller businesses harder than it will the larger companies," Latham says.

For more information on ADA requirements that affect employment, contact the EEOC at 1801 L St. NW, Suite 501, Washington, DC 20036, or call 800-USA-ABLE.

Looking for some of the hottest small business industries? (See, "Hot Areas For Small Business" and chart, "Leaders Of The Pack,") One of the first places to start is health care. According to the Occupational Outlook from the BLS, the health service industry's employment levels are projected to grow to 11.2 million by the year 2000 frail 18.2 million in 1988.

Some of the health care industry segments that offer good opportunities include medical claims processing, home health care and medical products distribution. Other industries poised for growth include temporary help, environmental cleanup, international trade and talecommunications.

According to the American Express Small Business Performance Outlook, the forecast for small business depends on the nation's employment and industrial outlook. The top five states in terms of employment growth for the first qua rter of 1992 through the end of the year are projected to be Nevada, Kansas, Iowa, Arizona and Minnesota. The bottom five: Connecticut, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and California.

Although black small business owners pay attention to such forecasts, mast are concerned about the outcome of the presidential election. In times of economic instability, African-American entrepreneurs often look to government for leadership--and help. Today is no different. Now that the concept of building up minority-owned businesses is center stage, black business owners are waiting to see whetherthe president--whoever he is--makes good on his pledge.

For More Information:

The small business arena is getting more competitive. The following sources should provide you with the information and contacts you need to survive in today's economy.

* Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund (MBELDEF), 2201St., Suite 280, Washington, DC 29002; 202-543-0(00. The Fund is an organization which provides information and legal assistance in support of the development of minority-owned businesses.

* National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC), 1333 F St NW, Suite 50e, Washington, DC 20004; 202-347-8259. This organization regularly disseminates information, including procurement opportunities, of importance to minority contractors.

* The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Suite 700, 660 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20024, 202-554-9000. The NFIB is the nation's largest advocacy organization representing small and independent businesses.

* National Minority Business Council (NMBC), 235 E. 45nd St., NewYork, NY 100117, 212-573-2385. The NMBC services the needs of minority-owned firms with help in procurement, training, education, advocacy and communications.